The development of heritage safeguarding has followed markedly different historical paths on the Chinese Mainland, in Hong Kong and Macao. This seminar traces the evolution of legal, institutional and individual approaches to the preservation of cultural heritage across these three jurisdictions, examining how imperial traditions, colonial administration, political transformation, and international norms have shaped contemporary heritage protection regimes.

The seminar begins by exploring early Chinese attitudes towards the preservation of cultural relics and monuments, before considering the establishment of modern cultural heritage laws in the People’s Republic of China and the growing influence of UNESCO conventions and international cultural policy. It then examines the distinct experiences of Hong Kong and Macao, where British and Portuguese colonial administrations developed different approaches to the protection of historic buildings, archaeological sites, and intangible cultural traditions. Particular attention will be paid to the emergence of heritage conservation movements, public participation in heritage protection, and the increasing recognition of cultural heritage as a component of identity, memory, and sustainable development.

The seminar will also consider the legal frameworks currently governing cultural heritage in the three jurisdictions and the challenges created by differing systems of governance under the “One Country, Two Systems” framework. Topics will include the protection of movable and immovable heritage, intangible cultural heritage, world heritage sites, and the prevention of illicit trafficking in cultural objects. Recent efforts to promote cooperation within the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area will be assessed as part of a broader discussion about the future of regional heritage governance.

About the Speaker:

Professor Steven Gallagher, CUHK LAW